Twenty-nine early career researchers from University of Limerick have been awarded funding through the Research Ireland Government of Ireland postgraduate and postdoctoral programmes.
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, has announced €36.3 million in funding for 341 research projects nationwide, supporting 97 postdoctoral fellows and 244 postgraduate scholars across 16 higher education institutions and research performing organisations.
The Government of Ireland programmes support suitably qualified research master’s, doctoral and postdoctoral candidates pursuing, or intending to pursue, full-time research in any discipline.
Scholarships can be held for between one and four years and fellowships for either one or two years.
For UL, five postdoctoral fellows and 24 postgraduate scholars have received funding of almost €2.3 million for their projects including research into the effective management of breast cancer brain metastases, marine cyber resilience and sustainability, and the design of cheaper, more efficient catalysts for producing clean hydrogen.
Announcing the awards, Minister Lawless said: “This significant investment of €36.3 million in our early career researchers reinforces the Government’s commitment to the future of Ireland’s research and innovation system. The Government of Ireland programme is a central measure in supporting the system’s continued development and in strengthening Ireland’s international competitiveness.
“Early career researchers are the lifeblood of that system. These awards, which span a wide range of subject areas, represent an investment in the country’s future capacity to innovate, driving both social and economic benefits. Without new ideas and new ways of thinking, we cannot hope to build or sustain Ireland as a knowledge economy. My congratulations to all the awardees. I look forward to seeing the impact of your work - on society, on your careers, and in further enhancing Ireland’s reputation as an innovation economy.”
Welcoming the announcement, Dr Diarmuid O’Brien, CEO of Research Ireland, commented: “At the heart of these programmes are the researchers themselves – individuals whose creativity and determination are shaping new ideas and advancing knowledge across all disciplines. This year’s awardees have demonstrated exceptional potential, bringing forward ambitious ideas and fresh perspectives that will enrich Ireland’s research community.
“Research Ireland is proud to support their development and to provide an environment in which their talent can thrive. Theirs is the curiosity, skill and dedication that will shape the breakthroughs of tomorrow. We are excited to see where their endeavours lead.”